Voter’s week at Osan begins June 28

Published June 21, 2010

OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea -- Armed Forces and Overseas Citizen Voter's Week is June 28 through July 7. Below are some frequently asked questions regarding how to vote while in an overseas location.

Who should be concerned? All active-duty personnel, civilians, contractors and dependents at Osan.

What is it? The Department of Defense and U.S. Air Force devote a week each federal election year to encourage awareness of the absentee voting process. Everyone should be aware they can quickly and easily register for all federal, state, and local elections with one form--the federal post card application. Every squadron or unit should have voting assistance representatives on hand to help members fill out forms.

Why is it important? Absentee votes definitely count in every election! The margin of victory in most elections is less than the number of overseas voters who cast their ballots in that election. In November, 38 new senators, all the house of representatives, and roughly 39 state governors will be elected.

How can I get involved? Register to vote! You can register to vote via mail, fax, and in many states, email. Contact your unit voting rep for forms and assistance or dial 784-VOTE(8683) for more information. Also, get online and download forms. Unit voting assistance officers should be making their rounds that week contacting personnel and helping people register.

Is it hard to vote? It's really easy, but each state has different rules for filling out forms. Your unit voting assistance officers can help you do this.

Is it mandatory for personnel to vote? It is a member's choice to vote and no one should make you. The AF and DoD goal is to make sure everyone has access to help in voting and ensuring that they fill out forms accurately so they get their ballots in time for the election.

For more information, contact the installation voting officers, Maj. Patrick Grolemund at 784-6601, 1st Lt. Paul Briski at 784-3919 or 1st Lt. Nick Reitz at 784-9370.

ROK the VOTE!